Sinn Féin spokesperson on the Irish language, Peadar Tóibín TD, today first launched the first of a series of documents by Sinn Féin which outlines Irish language education as it stands and examining ways to improve its provision.

Deputy Tóibín said:

“The Irish language is of invaluable importance to Irish people as it is an intrinsic part of who we are. While the ubiquity of English has conferred advantages in terms of international ease of communication there is doubt that we are losing as a nation a connection to who we are as a people and to our rich cultural heritage.

“Education is fundamental to the future of the Irish language. If we get this right, we will have the power to change the Irish language narrative.

“Unfortunately many obstacles exist concerning Irish language in the educational system. This ranges from shortage of naíonraí in Gaeltacht areas, to a lack of Gaelscoileanna to meet demand, to shortages of experienced, qualified teachers in Irish-medium secondary schools, to increasingly mixed standards in third level institutions.

“With the Department of Education refusing to compose a plan for the provision of Irish-medium education, we will be outlining our vision in a series of policy documents as to how to maximise the provision of quality Irish language education across the island. We believe that every parent should be able to send their child to a Gaelscoil if they so wish.

“Sinn Féin is committed to the development of a new Irish language deal. We believe that quality Irish medium education from pre-school to postgraduate is a right and should be available to whoever wishes to choose it both North and South.”